Z Report: Rick Smith getting the job done

John McClain ranked the top 50 Texans in terms of their value to the organization following last season. Mario Williams left that organization as a free agent and signed with the Buffalo Bills. McClain, though, did not rank Williams as high as many might think. less

John McClain ranked the top 50 Texans in terms of their value to the organization following last season. Mario Williams left that organization as a free agent and signed with the Buffalo Bills. McClain, ... more

Photo: AP

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The ranking is not only about who’s best, but who’s the most valuable, including the importance of his position within the team’s offensive and defensive schemes. For instance, if the defense still played a 4-3, DeMeco Ryans would play middle linebacker and rank in the top 10. But they play a 3-4, and his position doesn’t spend much time on the field because he’s usually replaced on passing downs by a cornerback. less

The ranking is not only about who’s best, but who’s the most valuable, including the importance of his position within the team’s offensive and defensive schemes. For instance, if the defense still ... more

Photo: Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle

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50. Brett Hartmann, punter

50. Brett Hartmann, punter

Photo: Brant Ward / The Chronicle

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49. Derek Newton, offensive tackle

49. Derek Newton, offensive tackle

Photo: Paul Ladd / Houston Texans

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48. Brandon Harris, cornerback

48. Brandon Harris, cornerback

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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47. Matt Leinart, quarterback

47. Matt Leinart, quarterback

Photo: Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle

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46. Shiloh Keo, strong safety

46. Shiloh Keo, strong safety

Photo: Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle

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45. Tim Dobbins, inside linebacker

45. Tim Dobbins, inside linebacker

Photo: Nick de la Torre / Houston Chronicle

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44. Bryan Braman, outside linebacker

44. Bryan Braman, outside linebacker

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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43. Garrett Graham, tight end

43. Garrett Graham, tight end

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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42. Jesse Nading, outside linebacker

42. Jesse Nading, outside linebacker

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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41. Sherrick McManis, cornerback

41. Sherrick McManis, cornerback

Photo: Brett Coomer / Chronicle

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40. Tim Bulman, defensive end

40. Tim Bulman, defensive end

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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39. Tim Jamison, defensive tackle

39. Tim Jamison, defensive tackle

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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38. Derrick Ward, running back

38. Derrick Ward, running back

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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37. T.J. Yates, quarterback

37. T.J. Yates, quarterback

Photo: Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle

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36. Neil Rackers, kicker

36. Neil Rackers, kicker

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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35. Quintin Demps, safety

35. Quintin Demps, safety

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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34. Antoine Caldwell, guard

34. Antoine Caldwell, guard

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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33. Rashad Butler, offensive tackle

33. Rashad Butler, offensive tackle

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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32. Troy Nolan, free safety

32. Troy Nolan, free safety

Photo: Nick de la Torre / Houston Chronicle

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31. Darryl Sharpton, inside linebacker

31. Darryl Sharpton, inside linebacker

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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30. Earl Mitchell, nose tackle

30. Earl Mitchell, nose tackle

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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29. James Casey, fullback/tight end

29. James Casey, fullback/tight end

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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28. Jacoby Jones, receiver/punt returner

28. Jacoby Jones, receiver/punt returner

Photo: Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle

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27. Lawrence Vickers, fullback

27. Lawrence Vickers, fullback

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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26. Brice McCain, cornerback

26. Brice McCain, cornerback

Photo: Nick de la Torre / Houston Chronicle

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25. Joel Dreessen, tight end

25. Joel Dreessen, tight end

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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24. Shaun Cody, nose tackle

24. Shaun Cody, nose tackle

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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23. Jason Allen, cornerback

23. Jason Allen, cornerback

Photo: Smiley N. Pool / Houston Chronicle

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22. Kareem Jackson, cornerback

22. Kareem Jackson, cornerback

Photo: Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle

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21. Mike Brisiel, guard

21. Mike Brisiel, guard

Photo: Karen Warren / Chronicle

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20. DeMeco Ryans, inside linebacker

20. DeMeco Ryans, inside linebacker

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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19. Kevin Walter, receiver

19. Kevin Walter, receiver

Photo: Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle

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18. Wade Smith, guard

18. Wade Smith, guard

Photo: Brett Coomer / Chronicle

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17. Glover Quin, strong safety

17. Glover Quin, strong safety

Photo: Smiley N. Pool / Houston Chronicle

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16. Ben Tate, running back

16. Ben Tate, running back

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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15. Danieal Manning, free safety

15. Danieal Manning, free safety

Photo: Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle

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14. Eric Winston, offensive tackle

14. Eric Winston, offensive tackle

Photo: Smiley N. Pool / Houston Chronicle

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13. Owen Daniels, tight end

13. Owen Daniels, tight end

Photo: Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle

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12. Antonio Smith, defensive end

12. Antonio Smith, defensive end

Photo: Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle

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11. Brooks Reed, outside linebacker

11. Brooks Reed, outside linebacker

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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10. Chris Myers, center

10. Chris Myers, center

Photo: Smiley N. Pool / Houston Chronicle

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9. Mario Williams, outside linebacker

9. Mario Williams, outside linebacker

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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8. Connor Barwin, outside linebacker

8. Connor Barwin, outside linebacker

Photo: Johnny Hanson / Houston Chronicle

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7. J.J. Watt, defensive tackle

7. J.J. Watt, defensive tackle

Photo: Smiley N. Pool / Houston Chronicle

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6. Duane Brown, offensive tackle

6. Duane Brown, offensive tackle

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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5. Johnathan Joseph, cornerback

5. Johnathan Joseph, cornerback

Photo: Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle

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4. Andre Johnson, receiver

4. Andre Johnson, receiver

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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3. Brian Cushing, inside linebacker

3. Brian Cushing, inside linebacker

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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2. Arian Foster, running back

2. Arian Foster, running back

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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1. Matt Schaub, quarterback

1. Matt Schaub, quarterback

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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Z Report: Rick Smith getting the job done

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Let me tell you about myself. I’m a believer in calling it like I see it. Many people say that, but they don’t mean it. They call it like they see it as long as it is favorable to their viewpoint. Politics is the absolute worst in this regard.

One can’t “call it like they see it” if they have agendas. If you hate a coach, player or general manager, you are going to try to find arguments that support your argument and you’ll gloss over anything that runs contrary. Worst yet, you’ll just disappear when things aren’t going your way but poke your head back in when it suits your agenda.

After watching Rick Smith operate for four years with the Texans, I had come away unimpressed with how he was running the team and how he was conducting himself as it pertained to the general manager’s position. I wrote about my concern last summer and had a brief discussion with Rick about some elements of my blog entry.

As I stated in my blog and I told Rick Smith, I didn’t have anything personal against him. I was just being honest and calling it like I saw it. I wanted the Texans to be successful and I wanted him to succeed and making that happen. I had no agenda other than watching Texans management build a team that could win and win at a high level over time.d

I was really concerned about how the Texans and Smith would handle last offseason since it was so important to address the secondary. I was worried that the Texans would be stuck with Ike Taylor or Carlos Rogers or another second level cornerback. Not only did Rick Smith pull off a tremendous off-season, he executed his gameplan flawlessly.

The Texans pursued Nnamdi Asomugha, but still had Johnathan Joseph on standby and were able to keep him and his agent in play despite pursuing Asomugha. That isn’t easy. Not only was Smith able to keep Joseph’s agent engaged, he was also able to keep Danieal Manning and his agent from accepting any other offers while making enough room for both Joseph and Manning under the cap. Very, very shrewd indeed.

Did I mention that we wouldn’t even be talking about Johnathan Joseph if Smith had caved in and given Dunta Robinson what many fans wanted to give him? Instead, the Texans had room to add Joseph and Manning while the Falcons are stuck with Robinson who has underperformed in both of his first two years with the Falcons.

The way Smith handled free agency was very impressive to me because I know what has to take place behind the scenes and I didn’t think Smith has the experience or connections to pull it off, but he did. I’m just calling it like I see it. I don’t have an agenda one way or the other.d

Arian Foster… big money… no whammies and STOP!

The Texans had a great draft and while Wade Phillips’ finger prints were clearly on many of the defensive picks since he had the best understanding of what it was that he needed for his defense, Smith is the one who conducted the draft. I don’t know who was responsible for the entire draft, but I know that getting J.J. Watt and Brooks Reed with the first two picks did not suck.

With all the draft love out of the way, the concern that has lingered the longest for the Texans has been how to take care of Arian Foster. I haven’t always been a fan of the way that Smith has handled negotiations with core players. Owen Daniels, Andre Johnson and Dunta Robinson all had issues with how things were going down. Dealing with Arian Foster, a unique person if I’ve ever seen, was going to be tricky and potentially hazardous if Smith didn’t handle it right.

My biggest concern was probably that the Texans would simply argue that the value of running backs in their system isn’t what it is for other teams which would lead to hard feeling from Foster and his camp which, in turn, could leak over into next season. Instead, Smith and Mike McCartney(Arian’s agent) hammered out an agreement that appears to be very fair for both sides. Foster isn’t the highest paid running back in the league, although he could have argued to be paid like it, but he also go a solid deal considering how much leverage the Texans had over him with the franchise tag.

In other words, Smith and the Texans could have played hardball with Foster yet again, but they didn’t. They did the right thing.d

Mario Will Have To Go

I know that everything we read from John McClain was that the Texans top priority was Mario Williams and that terrorized me based on the numbers that is sure to command. Surely the Texans wouldn’t allow their infatuation with Mario Williams destroy what they had been building by forcing a mass exodus of their own free agents, right? It appears as though that won’t happen and it is the smart thing.

There are defenders of Williams who believe that arguments against signing him are rooted in personal feelings, but I’m just calling it like I see it. We all had a sampling of what the defense could do without Williams in the lineup and it was very favorable. Is Mario Williams better than Brooks Reed? Yes. Is he so much better than Reed (or a potential draft pick) that it is worth losing other members of your team including the likes of Chris Myers and other starters who might be cap casualties? No.

Mario could have been very effective in Wade Phillips’ scheme, but that’s just it……. it’s the SCHEME. Philips was able to crate havoc based on matchups, how hard the front four played and based on studying the opposing offensive line’s tendencies in terms of pass protection. I honestly believe that a front 7 that plays as hard as the Texans did last year will continue to have success under Phillips. The loss of Wade Phillips would have been much more detrimental than the loss of Mario Williams.

If the Texans let Williams walk (and I don’t see how they can keep him based on their cap situation), it will show another level of growth from Smith. It isn’t always easy to let good football players walk, but organizations have to make certain sacrifices for the good of the team and to allow for continued growth and success. The Texans have to re-do deals with the likes of Brian Cushing, Matt Schaub and Duane Brown. These deals won’t be cheap.

If the Texans had done everything in their power to give Mario Williams his market value, then it could have hamstrung them with deals on Cushing, Schaub and/or Brown. Even if you managed to get deals done with them, it probably puts you in a cap hell that won’t allow you to be buyers on the free agent market for the next three years.

Smith has shown a ton of growth as a general manager over the last year. He and capologist Chris Olsen have been very sound with the value of their contracts and getting Foster’s contract done in an amicable fashion despite running the “zone scheme” is another sign of respect for his own players and their ability.

The only dog I have in this fight is “Winning Football” and Smith has been a big part of their recent success as he is continues to show signs of growing into the position. I’m just calling it like I see it.

Photo: Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle

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Les Alexander – Two championships count for something, even if they’re slowly fading from memory. Thanks for the memories, Les.

Les Alexander – Two championships count for something, even if they’re slowly fading from memory. Thanks for the memories, Les.

Photo: Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle

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Alan Ashby – The outstanding catcher (1979-89) of the Astros’ Astrodome era, Ashby is one of 11 MLB catchers to catch three no-hitters, including Mike Scott’s 1986 division clincher. He was an Astros broadcaster from 1998 to 2005.
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Alan Ashby – The outstanding catcher (1979-89) of the Astros’ Astrodome era, Ashby is one of 11 MLB catchers to catch three no-hitters, including Mike Scott’s 1986 division clincher. He was an Astros ... more

Photo: Meg Loucks/ Houston Chronicle

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Bob Aspromonte – Aspro, an original member of the Colt .45s (1962-68), three times in 1962 promised to hit homers for a temporarily blinded young fan. He delivered each time, including a grand slam after the boy regained partial vision. less

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Photo: Reinhold Matay/For the Chronicle

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Shane Battier – A classy, well-spoken, smart, stylish guy. A city can’t have too many Shane Battiers for the kids to look up to.

Shane Battier – A classy, well-spoken, smart, stylish guy. A city can’t have too many Shane Battiers for the kids to look up to.

Photo: James Nielsen/Houston Chronicle

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Lance Berkman – Agile, athletic, sleek (in his own words, at least) … and still, even after winning a World Series ring with the Cardinals, one of Houston’s favorites after a productive decade (1999-2010) with the Astros. less

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Photo: James Nielsen/Houston Chronicle

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Elvin Bethea – The consummate warrior, the Hall-of-Famer spent 16 seasons battling – and sometimes grumbling - in the trenches for the Oilers, but he gave his all for a couple of near-great teams and a few horrible ones, too. less

Elvin Bethea – The consummate warrior, the Hall-of-Famer spent 16 seasons battling – and sometimes grumbling - in the trenches for the Oilers, but he gave his all for a couple of near-great teams and a ... more

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Craig Biggio – An Astros lifer (1998-2007) who holds records in eight major categories, he has 3,060 career hits, a statue outside Minute Maid Park and, Astros fans hope, a Hall of Fame plaque in 2013.

Craig Biggio – An Astros lifer (1998-2007) who holds records in eight major categories, he has 3,060 career hits, a statue outside Minute Maid Park and, Astros fans hope, a Hall of Fame plaque in 2013.

Photo: Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle

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Earl Campbell – Hercules in a helmet, the Tyler Rose won the Heisman as a Horn, then flowered even more brilliantly as an Oiler. No Earl, no Luv ya Blue.

Earl Campbell – Hercules in a helmet, the Tyler Rose won the Heisman as a Horn, then flowered even more brilliantly as an Oiler. No Earl, no Luv ya Blue.

Photo: Geary Broadnax/ Chronicle file

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Don Chaney - "The Duck" played beside Elvin Hayes as a Cougar, won accolades as a heady Celtics role player, then returned to take the Rockets' reigns. He didn't win, but we forgave him because he's one of the all-time good guys. less

Don Chaney - "The Duck" played beside Elvin Hayes as a Cougar, won accolades as a heady Celtics role player, then returned to take the Rockets' reigns. He didn't win, but we forgave him because he's one of the ... more

Photo: Aaron M. Sprecher/ For the Chronicle

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Brian Ching – Ching came to Houston in 2006 with the San Jose Earthquakes and led the renamed Dynamo to MLS Cup titles in 2006-07. Lost in the 2012 expansion draft, he took a $200,000 pay cut to rejoin the Dynamo this spring. less

Brian Ching – Ching came to Houston in 2006 with the San Jose Earthquakes and led the renamed Dynamo to MLS Cup titles in 2006-07. Lost in the 2012 expansion draft, he took a $200,000 pay cut to rejoin the ... more

Photo: Melissa Phillip/Houston Chronicle

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Roger Clemens – Is there a more polarizing figure in sports? Arguably the greatest right-hander in modern history, he boosted his hometown Astros to the 2004-05 playoffs but dealt with steroid allegations after his playing career ended.
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Roger Clemens – Is there a more polarizing figure in sports? Arguably the greatest right-hander in modern history, he boosted his hometown Astros to the 2004-05 playoffs but dealt with steroid allegations ... more

Photo: Melissa Phillip/Houston Chronicle

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Cynthia Cooper – The Michael Jordan of the WNBA, she could light up anybody and on any given night. Behind her the Comets, RIP, became our longest-running sports dynasty.

Cynthia Cooper – The Michael Jordan of the WNBA, she could light up anybody and on any given night. Behind her the Comets, RIP, became our longest-running sports dynasty.

Photo: Melissa Phillip/Houston Chronicle

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Fred Couples – A member of Dave Williams’ golf team at the University of Houston, he became a Masters champion (1992), the first UH alumnus to win the Shell Houston Open (2003) and a Champions Tour winner at The Woodlands (2010). less

Fred Couples – A member of Dave Williams’ golf team at the University of Houston, he became a Masters champion (1992), the first UH alumnus to win the Shell Houston Open (2003) and a Champions Tour winner ... more

Photo: Getty

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Jose Cruz – Jose “Cruuuuzzzzzz,” as introduced by the late Astrodome PA announcer J. Fred Duckett, played 13 of 19 (1975-87) big league seasons in Houston and has been a part of every Astros playoff season as a player or coach. less

Jose Cruz – Jose “Cruuuuzzzzzz,” as introduced by the late Astrodome PA announcer J. Fred Duckett, played 13 of 19 (1975-87) big league seasons in Houston and has been a part of every Astros playoff ... more

Photo: Julio Cortez/ Chronicle file

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Jimmy Demaret – A legendary bon vivant, Demaret (1910-1983) also could play golf with the best of them. He was the first three-time Masters champion, helped launch the senior tour and, with Jackie Burke, founded Champions Golf Club. less

Jimmy Demaret – A legendary bon vivant, Demaret (1910-1983) also could play golf with the best of them. He was the first three-time Masters champion, helped launch the senior tour and, with Jackie Burke, ... more

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Larry Dierker – He debuted in 1964 on his 18th birthday, striking out Willie Mays, and is in his fifth decade with the Astros as player (1964-76), broadcaster (1979-96, 2004-5), manager (1997-2001) and good will ambassador. less

Larry Dierker – He debuted in 1964 on his 18th birthday, striking out Willie Mays, and is in his fifth decade with the Astros as player (1964-76), broadcaster (1979-96, 2004-5), manager (1997-2001) and good ... more

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Mike Dunleavy – An over-achiever on the court who had a long career as a player, coach and general manager, older Rockets fans still remember him as the “Chicken Man.” Five times over a three-year period he scored the 135th point in a game that won all the fans in attendance a box of free fried chicken.
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Mike Dunleavy – An over-achiever on the court who had a long career as a player, coach and general manager, older Rockets fans still remember him as the “Chicken Man.” Five times over a three-year ... more

Photo: David Phillip/Associated Press

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Clyde Drexler – Reared in Houston, Clyde the Glide was cruelly deprived of a national championship as Phi Slama Jama’s frat-house president, but he gained redemption – personal and civic – years later by helping the Rockets defend their NBA title.
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Clyde Drexler – Reared in Houston, Clyde the Glide was cruelly deprived of a national championship as Phi Slama Jama’s frat-house president, but he gained redemption – personal and civic – years ... more

Photo: D. Fahleson/ Houston Chronicle

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Mario Elie – You win championships with guys like Ellie, the fearless junkyard dog in the Rockets’ twice NBA-conquering rotation.

Mario Elie – You win championships with guys like Ellie, the fearless junkyard dog in the Rockets’ twice NBA-conquering rotation.

Photo: Smiley N. Pool/ Houston Chronicle

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George Foreman – As puncher, preacher, family man and marketing pitchman, no Houston sports figure is larger than life like Big George. His biggest moment was winning back the world heavyweight title in 1994 at age 45. less

George Foreman – As puncher, preacher, family man and marketing pitchman, no Houston sports figure is larger than life like Big George. His biggest moment was winning back the world heavyweight title in ... more

Photo: Amy Sancetta/AP

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Arian Foster – Earl Campbell redux? Could be. If the Texans are going anywhere, they’ll be following Foster, the bargain free agent of the century. And the man’s a poet to boot. Helluva dresser, too.

Arian Foster – Earl Campbell redux? Could be. If the Texans are going anywhere, they’ll be following Foster, the bargain free agent of the century. And the man’s a poet to boot. Helluva dresser, too.

Photo: Brett Coomer/ Houston Chronicle

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A.J. Foyt – “Super Tex” got his start at Houston’s Playland Park, but his home track was the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, where he won four Indy 500s. He’s the only man to win Indy, the Daytona 500 and the 24 Hours of LeMans. less

A.J. Foyt – “Super Tex” got his start at Houston’s Playland Park, but his home track was the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, where he won four Indy 500s. He’s the only man to win Indy, the Daytona 500 ... more

Photo: Michael Conroy/AP

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Zina Garrison – She picked up tennis at MacGregor Park, and the game took her to two Olympic medals, 34 professional championships and a berth in the 1990 Wimbledon singles finals against Martina Navratilova. less

Zina Garrison – She picked up tennis at MacGregor Park, and the game took her to two Olympic medals, 34 professional championships and a berth in the 1990 Wimbledon singles finals against Martina ... more

Photo: Richard Drew/AP

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Ernest Givins – The spindly little guy could get open, and he could catch, too. He became Warren Moon’s go-to guy when a play had to be made.

Ernest Givins – The spindly little guy could get open, and he could catch, too. He became Warren Moon’s go-to guy when a play had to be made.

Photo: Dave Einsel/Houston Chronicle

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Wayne Graham– He played for Casey Stengel’s Mets, wears Stengel’s number 37 and, in his mid-70s, is this century’s Old Perfessor, with five national JC titles at San Jacinto and the 2003 College World Series title at Rice.
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Wayne Graham– He played for Casey Stengel’s Mets, wears Stengel’s number 37 and, in his mid-70s, is this century’s Old Perfessor, with five national JC titles at San Jacinto and the 2003 College World ... more

Photo: Thomas B. Shea/ For the Chronicle

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Kenneth Hall – Haven’t heard of him? Well, pay attention. He averaged nearly five touchdowns per game for Sugar Land High School in the early 1950s and ran for 11,232 yards in four seasons. That’s still the national high school record. That’s sick. less

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Elvin Hayes – The Big EEEEEEEEEEEEEE! Not only did he take down mighty UCLA in the Astrodome in the game that invented college basketball, his presence with the San Diego Rockets was why they became the Houston Rockets.
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Elvin Hayes – The Big EEEEEEEEEEEEEE! Not only did he take down mighty UCLA in the Astrodome in the game that invented college basketball, his presence with the San Diego Rockets was why they became the ... more

Photo: Ben DeSoto/ Chronicle file

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Solly Hemus – The “Little Pepper Pot” helped carry the 1947 Buffs to the Dixie Series title. He played 11 years in the majors, briefly managed the Cardinals and remains, in his 80s, a fan of Houston major league baseball. less

Solly Hemus – The “Little Pepper Pot” helped carry the 1947 Buffs to the Dixie Series title. He played 11 years in the majors, briefly managed the Cardinals and remains, in his 80s, a fan of Houston ... more

Photo: Ben DeSoto/ Chronicle file

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Roy Hofheinz – Legislator, county judge, mayor and visionary, the Judge helped bring big league baseball to Houston and envisioned and built the Astrodome, which still stands as a monument to his ambition and imagination. less

Roy Hofheinz – Legislator, county judge, mayor and visionary, the Judge helped bring big league baseball to Houston and envisioned and built the Astrodome, which still stands as a monument to his ambition ... more

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Robert Horry – You win championships with guys like Horry, too. The Rockets’ quiet assassin never missed a trey when one was needed to save the day.

Robert Horry – You win championships with guys like Horry, too. The Rockets’ quiet assassin never missed a trey when one was needed to save the day.

Photo: Howard Castleberry/Chronicle file

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Ken Houston – How the Oilers could have ever traded him to Washington will always remain a mystery, but the Hall of Famer came home to coach and, later, work in the public schools. Houston should be very proud of its namesake. less

Ken Houston – How the Oilers could have ever traded him to Washington will always remain a mystery, but the Hall of Famer came home to coach and, later, work in the public schools. Houston should be very ... more

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Gordie Howe – You had to be here to have appreciated how special it was to have Mr. Hockey skating on Houston ice for the original Aeros. Picture Babe Ruth coming out of retirement to lead the Astros to a couple World Series. Howe was the WHA’s MVP at 46. Unreal. less

Gordie Howe – You had to be here to have appreciated how special it was to have Mr. Hockey skating on Houston ice for the original Aeros. Picture Babe Ruth coming out of retirement to lead the Astros to a ... more

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Andre Johnson – If justice is served, ‘Dre will play in a Super Bowl for the Texans before he’s done. He remains the face of the franchise, a couple of hamstring pulls last fall notwithstanding.

Andre Johnson – If justice is served, ‘Dre will play in a Super Bowl for the Texans before he’s done. He remains the face of the franchise, a couple of hamstring pulls last fall notwithstanding.

Photo: Karen Warren/ Houston Chronicle

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Billy "White Shoes" Johnson – The most electrifying return man ever seen in these parts, Shoes was a threat to go the distance every time he touched the football. His wobbly knees end-zone dance was icing on the cake. less

Billy "White Shoes" Johnson – The most electrifying return man ever seen in these parts, Shoes was a threat to go the distance every time he touched the football. His wobbly knees end-zone dance was icing on ... more

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Bela Karolyi – As is the case with his most famous pupils, Nadia and Mary Lou, everyone who follows gymnastics is on a first-name basis with the veteran coach, who still oversees USA Gymnastics’ training center near New Waverly.
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Bela Karolyi – As is the case with his most famous pupils, Nadia and Mary Lou, everyone who follows gymnastics is on a first-name basis with the veteran coach, who still oversees USA Gymnastics’ training ... more

Photo: Smiley N. Pool/ Houston Chronicle

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Case Keenum – One game doesn’t ruin this young man’s legacy. He had an amazing run at Robertson Stadium. Just hope he doesn’t come back now and mess with the Texans.

Case Keenum – One game doesn’t ruin this young man’s legacy. He had an amazing run at Robertson Stadium. Just hope he doesn’t come back now and mess with the Texans.

Photo: Nick de la Torre/ Houston Chronicle

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Charlie Kerfeld – His Conehead routine in 1986 was helped considerably by his 11-2 record and 2.69 ERA as the Astros’ (1985-90) bullpen setup man. No. 37 signed in 1987 for $110,037.37 and 37 boxes of orange Jell-O. Yes, really. less

Charlie Kerfeld – His Conehead routine in 1986 was helped considerably by his 11-2 record and 2.69 ERA as the Astros’ (1985-90) bullpen setup man. No. 37 signed in 1987 for $110,037.37 and 37 boxes of ... more

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Gary Kubiak – People forget he was a superstar in football and basketball in junior high school, then tore it up at St. Pius X before becoming an Aggie. There are homeys and then there’s Kubes, in a league of his own as the only Houstonian ever to return to coach one of our major pro teams. less

Gary Kubiak – People forget he was a superstar in football and basketball in junior high school, then tore it up at St. Pius X before becoming an Aggie. There are homeys and then there’s Kubes, in a ... more

Photo: Nick de la Torre/ Houston Chronicle

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Tara Lipinski – This modern-day Sugar Land Express trained briefly at the Galleria ice rink, perfected her craft in Detroit and won the 1998 ladies figure skating gold medal at age 15, the youngest Olympic champion ever.
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Tara Lipinski – This modern-day Sugar Land Express trained briefly at the Galleria ice rink, perfected her craft in Detroit and won the 1998 ladies figure skating gold medal at age 15, the youngest Olympic ... more

Photo: Amy Sancetta/AP

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Carl Lewis – Please don’t ask him to sing, but don’t ever question the credentials of this University of Houston alumnus as the greatest track and field athlete in Olympic history (nine gold medals, one bronze).
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Carl Lewis – Please don’t ask him to sing, but don’t ever question the credentials of this University of Houston alumnus as the greatest track and field athlete in Olympic history (nine gold medals, one ... more

Photo: Lynne Sladky/AP

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Guy V. Lewis – He’s been retired for a quarter century, but you still can’t think about Houston Cougar basketball and not picture Guy V. tossing his polka-dot towel in the air after a win. A true visionary, he put Houston on the basketball map.
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Guy V. Lewis – He’s been retired for a quarter century, but you still can’t think about Houston Cougar basketball and not picture Guy V. tossing his polka-dot towel in the air after a win. A true ... more

Photo: Chronicle file

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Dicky Maegle – He so frustrated Alabama in Rice’s victorious ’54 Cotton Bowl victory, Tommy Lewis left the Tide bench and tackled him without a helmet. A legend was born that day.

Dicky Maegle – He so frustrated Alabama in Rice’s victorious ’54 Cotton Bowl victory, Tommy Lewis left the Tide bench and tackled him without a helmet. A legend was born that day.

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Moses Malone – Like too many of our heroes, he had to leave town to get a championship. But Mo gave his all to the Rockets, leading them to one improbable NBA Finals, then tutored a young Hakeem Olajuwon at the Fonde gym. We’re grateful for both.
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Moses Malone – Like too many of our heroes, he had to leave town to get a championship. But Mo gave his all to the Rockets, leading them to one improbable NBA Finals, then tutored a young Hakeem Olajuwon at ... more

Photo: Steve Ueckert/ Chronicle file

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Slater Martin – “Dugie” led Davis to state high school basketball titles in 1942 and 1943, took Texas to the NCAA Final Four in 1947 and was a member of the NBA’s first dynasty with the 1950s Minneapolis Lakers.
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Slater Martin – “Dugie” led Davis to state high school basketball titles in 1942 and 1943, took Texas to the NCAA Final Four in 1947 and was a member of the NBA’s first dynasty with the 1950s ... more

Bruce Matthews – True, he went over to the dark side when he joined his buddy Mike Munchak back in Nashville, but that’s OK. This NFL marathon man and Hall-of-Famer will always be thought up as one of the good guys.
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Bruce Matthews – True, he went over to the dark side when he joined his buddy Mike Munchak back in Nashville, but that’s OK. This NFL marathon man and Hall-of-Famer will always be thought up as one of the ... more

Photo: Howard Castleberry/Chronicle file

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Drayton McLane – The billionaire grocer from Temple had his critics as the Astros faded to 56-106 in 2011, but he presided over the most successful period in franchise history and helped make Houston baseball a downtown sport. less

Drayton McLane – The billionaire grocer from Temple had his critics as the Astros faded to 56-106 in 2011, but he presided over the most successful period in franchise history and helped make Houston ... more

Photo: Nick de la Torre/ Houston Chronicle

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Bob McNair – What a blessing it was that Bob had a billion bucks lying around when there was a football franchise to be had. The NFL didn’t want to return to Houston, but McNair gave the league no choice. They couldn’t raise the ante high enough to thwart him. He’s a classy owner who deserves to be rewarded with a championship.
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Bob McNair – What a blessing it was that Bob had a billion bucks lying around when there was a football franchise to be had. The NFL didn’t want to return to Houston, but McNair gave the league no choice. ... more

Photo: Michael Paulsen/ Houston Chronicle

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Yao Ming – A wonderful guy and a near-great player whose super-sized body betrayed him, Yao left a permanent mark on Houston. Maybe China will send him back one day to serve as consul general.

Yao Ming – A wonderful guy and a near-great player whose super-sized body betrayed him, Yao left a permanent mark on Houston. Maybe China will send him back one day to serve as consul general.

Photo: Karen Warren/ Houston Chronicle

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Warren Moon – At the time he was playing perhaps we didn’t appreciate him enough, but so many lean years since have changed our perspective. Moon’s Oilers tenure was loads of fun, even if he failed to deliver a Super Bowl or two.
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Warren Moon – At the time he was playing perhaps we didn’t appreciate him enough, but so many lean years since have changed our perspective. Moon’s Oilers tenure was loads of fun, even if he failed to ... more

Photo: Dave Einsel/ Houston Chronicle

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Mike Munchak – Can we forgive him for taking the Titans’ job. We’ll see. Should we? Yes. Like Bruce Matthews, he gave everything he had for the Oilers.

Mike Munchak – Can we forgive him for taking the Titans’ job. We’ll see. Should we? Yes. Like Bruce Matthews, he gave everything he had for the Oilers.

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Calvin Murphy – Some public laundering of his dirty laundry tarnished Murphy’s image, but the little guy sure was fun to watch play basketball.

Calvin Murphy – Some public laundering of his dirty laundry tarnished Murphy’s image, but the little guy sure was fun to watch play basketball.

Photo: Larry Reese/Chronicle file

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Jess Neely – We have Neely to thank for Rice Stadium. Houston was a different place back when he coached the Owls, but his body of work speaks for itself.

Jess Neely – We have Neely to thank for Rice Stadium. Houston was a different place back when he coached the Owls, but his body of work speaks for itself.

Photo: Sam Pierson/ Chronicle file

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Hakeem Olajuwon – The greatest ever to wear Houston’s colors? It’s him or Earl Campbell, and Dream did deliver two NBA titles. That’s the tiebreaker.

Hakeem Olajuwon – The greatest ever to wear Houston’s colors? It’s him or Earl Campbell, and Dream did deliver two NBA titles. That’s the tiebreaker.

Photo: Dave Einsel/ Houston Chronicle

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Roy Oswalt – The whippet from Weir, Miss., was a 20-win bulldozer for the 2004-2005 Astros playoff teams. His 143-82 record (2001-10) was one short of the franchise mark for career wins when he was traded to the Phillies.
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Roy Oswalt – The whippet from Weir, Miss., was a 20-win bulldozer for the 2004-2005 Astros playoff teams. His 143-82 record (2001-10) was one short of the franchise mark for career wins when he was traded ... more

Photo: Nick de la Torre/ Houston Chronicle

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Jack Pardee – He beat cancer, but he couldn’t beat Buffalo. He was such a good guy the latter no longer seems all that important.

Jack Pardee – He beat cancer, but he couldn’t beat Buffalo. He was such a good guy the latter no longer seems all that important.

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Dan Pastorini – The man Carl Mauck called “the fancy passin’ Dago,” was the Oilers’ starting quarterback in AFC Championship Games and, off the field, he was always an adventure waiting to happen.

Dan Pastorini – The man Carl Mauck called “the fancy passin’ Dago,” was the Oilers’ starting quarterback in AFC Championship Games and, off the field, he was always an adventure waiting to happen.

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Bum Phillips – O.A. Phillips was the face of our city. Other than Sam Houston himself, there might not be a more iconic hero.

Bum Phillips – O.A. Phillips was the face of our city. Other than Sam Houston himself, there might not be a more iconic hero.

Photo: Sam Pierson Jr./ Chronicle file

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Wade Phillips – The proverbial acorn doesn’t fall far from the tree. He returned last fall and delivered what might have been the best coaching job ever seen in these parts when he resurrected the Texans’ sad-sack defense.
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Wade Phillips – The proverbial acorn doesn’t fall far from the tree. He returned last fall and delivered what might have been the best coaching job ever seen in these parts when he resurrected the ... more

Photo: James Nielsen/ Houston Chronicle

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Doug Rader – The Red Rooster was a Hall of Fame prankster (“Eat bubble gum cards,” he advised young players. “They have good information”) but also a fierce competitor and five-time Gold Glove winner (1967-75) for the Astros. less

Doug Rader – The Red Rooster was a Hall of Fame prankster (“Eat bubble gum cards,” he advised young players. “They have good information”) but also a fierce competitor and five-time Gold Glove ... more

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Mary Lou Retton – Three decades after her gymnastics all-around gold medal at the 1984 Olympics, Retton still beams at you each morning from Wheaties boxes as the epitome of power, precision and sheer exuberance.
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Mary Lou Retton – Three decades after her gymnastics all-around gold medal at the 1984 Olympics, Retton still beams at you each morning from Wheaties boxes as the epitome of power, precision and sheer ... more

Photo: Robert Seale/ For the Chronicle

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J.R. Richard – Fans recall what could have been but still honor what J.R. did: 1,493 strikeouts in 1,606 innings, including 313 Ks in 1979. Before ill health ended his Astros career (1971-81), he was monumentally unhittable.
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J.R. Richard – Fans recall what could have been but still honor what J.R. did: 1,493 strikeouts in 1,606 innings, including 313 Ks in 1979. Before ill health ended his Astros career (1971-81), he was ... more

Photo: Mike Robinson/Chronicle file

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Terry Ruskowski – The only North American hockey player to captain four pro clubs alongside an old Gordie Howe and a young Mario Lemieux, he got his start with the WHA Aeros in the 1970s. He also coached the IHL Aeros in the ‘90s.
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Terry Ruskowski – The only North American hockey player to captain four pro clubs alongside an old Gordie Howe and a young Mario Lemieux, he got his start with the WHA Aeros in the 1970s. He also coached ... more

Photo: handout

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Nolan Ryan – One of Houston’s holy trinity to wear jersey number 34, the Alvin Express threw his fifth no-hitter and broke the MLB career strikeout record for his hometown team (1980-88).

Nolan Ryan – One of Houston’s holy trinity to wear jersey number 34, the Alvin Express threw his fifth no-hitter and broke the MLB career strikeout record for his hometown team (1980-88).

Photo: Karla Stolleis/ Chronicle file

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Mike Scott – Did he scuff the ball? Astros fans don’t care. He was 110-81 from 1983-91, and his division-clinching no-hitter in 1986 remains arguably the greatest moment in franchise history.

Mike Scott – Did he scuff the ball? Astros fans don’t care. He was 110-81 from 1983-91, and his division-clinching no-hitter in 1986 remains arguably the greatest moment in franchise history.

Photo: Tim Johnson/AP

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Sheryl Swoopes – A dominant player on Texas Tech’s 1993 NCAA championship team, Swoopes was twice the WNBA’s MVP and defensive player of the year in the same season and played on four championship teams with the Comets.
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Sheryl Swoopes – A dominant player on Texas Tech’s 1993 NCAA championship team, Swoopes was twice the WNBA’s MVP and defensive player of the year in the same season and played on four championship teams ... more

Photo: Christobal Perez/Chronicle file

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Tina Thompson – One of the Comets’ Big Three that won the first four WNBA championships, Thompson has won two Olympic gold medals (2004 and 2008) and is the WNBA’s career scoring leader.

Tina Thompson – One of the Comets’ Big Three that won the first four WNBA championships, Thompson has won two Olympic gold medals (2004 and 2008) and is the WNBA’s career scoring leader.

Photo: Steve Ueckert/ Houston Chronicle

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Rudy Tomjanovich – Belongs on the same plane as Bum. Hamtrmak claims him, but so do we.

Rudy Tomjanovich – Belongs on the same plane as Bum. Hamtrmak claims him, but so do we.

Photo: Rex C. Curry/ Chron file

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Billy Wagner – Enter Sandman, exit opposing hitters. The Astros’ heat-seeking closer (1995-2003) holds the franchise record for saves (225) and was as quick with a quip as with a fastball.

Billy Wagner – Enter Sandman, exit opposing hitters. The Astros’ heat-seeking closer (1995-2003) holds the franchise record for saves (225) and was as quick with a quip as with a fastball.

Photo: Karen Warren/ Houston Chronicle

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Andre Ware – The Dickinson native ran and shot his way to a Heisman Trophy, the first awarded to a black quarterback. Things didn't go so well in for him in the NFL, but today he's a fine analyst on the Texans' broadcasts.
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Andre Ware – The Dickinson native ran and shot his way to a Heisman Trophy, the first awarded to a black quarterback. Things didn't go so well in for him in the NFL, but today he's a fine analyst on the ... more

Photo: Chronicle file

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Wilson Whitley – Mr. Cougar, he was front and center in the D-line when UH entered the SWC, then conquered same. RIP, big fella.

Wilson Whitley – Mr. Cougar, he was front and center in the D-line when UH entered the SWC, then conquered same. RIP, big fella.

Photo: Bela Ugrin/ Chronicle file

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Jimmy Wynn – Playing in the cavernous Astrodome, the diminutive “Toy Cannon” blasted 223 homers in a Houston uniform (1963-73) and remains a cornerstone of the Astros’ outreach efforts for inner-city youth.
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Jimmy Wynn – Playing in the cavernous Astrodome, the diminutive “Toy Cannon” blasted 223 homers in a Houston uniform (1963-73) and remains a cornerstone of the Astros’ outreach efforts for inner-city ... more

Photo: Bill Clough/ Chronicle file

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Bill Yeoman – The father of the Veer offense is Houston royalty. No other way to say it.

Bill Yeoman – The father of the Veer offense is Houston royalty. No other way to say it.

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Vince Young – The pride of Madison High (and former UT star) made himself so popular the city didn’t even seem to mind him beating up on the Texans, which he did regularly as a Titan.

Vince Young – The pride of Madison High (and former UT star) made himself so popular the city didn’t even seem to mind him beating up on the Texans, which he did regularly as a Titan.